How long should I stay in my first Accounting job?
I recently graduated with my bachelor’s degree and, despite lacking relevant experience, I landed a staff accountant position that offers an hourly rate bringing me just under $50k in Western Washington, even before overtime. I haven’t pursued my CPA yet and don’t plan to for now since I want to avoid nighttime studying.
I’ve been in this role for almost 7 months now and feel pretty comfortable with the daily tasks, only needing occasional help with QuickBooks. Initially, I thought about starting my job search once I hit the 2-year mark, but I’m beginning to wonder if that’s too long. What do employers typically look for in candidates moving up in their careers? What would demonstrate career growth versus what might seem like stagnation?
One response
It’s great to hear that you’ve settled into your role and are feeling confident in your day-to-day tasks. In general, staying in your first Accounting job for at least a year to two years is a solid timeframe. This duration allows you to gain valuable experience, build relationships, and develop a deeper understanding of Accounting practices, which can be attractive to future employers.
Here are a few considerations to help you decide when to move on:
Skill Development: If you feel you’ve mastered your current role and aren’t being challenged anymore, it may be time to seek new opportunities that can offer growth and new experiences.
Career Goals: Think about where you want to go in your career. If your aspirations include roles that typically require a CPA or more advanced skills, consider how to position yourself in your current job or look for a new one that aligns better with those goals.
Networking and Reputation: Use your current job to build a good professional network. Engage with colleagues and superiors; their recommendations can be invaluable when you start applying for new roles.
Market Conditions: Research the job market in your area and in your desired field. If there are numerous opportunities available that cater to your skillset, it might be worth exploring them sooner rather than later.
Job Satisfaction: Ultimately, assess how satisfied you are in your role. If you’re enjoying the work and believe there’s room for advancement or additional responsibilities where you are, staying longer could be beneficial.
Remember that every experience can be valuable, whether it ties directly into your future roles or serves as a stepping stone. If you think you’re learning and growing, extending your stay even past the two-year mark may very well be worthwhile. Good luck with your journey!